Spring 2005 Travel Report

Our spring visit to Ukraine was different from any other visit and very busy. His Kids, Too! director, Teresa and her son, Dallas, accompanied her on the trip. Dallas has been serving orphans since 1999, and this was his 8th trip to Ukraine.

Our trip would consist of visiting the facilities that His Kids, Too! already is servicing, accessing new needs, visiting new facilities that have requested assistance, visiting with church members, and ministering to Christina, our translator, friend, and sister in Christ. After arriving, and visiting with Christina, our schedule changed, as our priorities for this trip changed. It was obvious that she was quite ill, and time needed to be allocated to assist her and minister to her. We were blessed to have enough time to visit 9 facilities, accommodating them with clothing, personal hygiene bags, toys, blankets, hats, scarves, shoes, medical supplies and much more.

We arrived in snowy Dzerzhinsk and work was waiting for us. Thousands of pounds of aide that had been sent prior to our trip waited to be sorted for distribution. Ray, Lynn, and our new board member, Denis, were all there to assist with the sorting. The 2 weeks that followed we visited the facilities listed below, visiting well over 1000 children and many adults. We put clothing on children (when allowed), provided a hug or comfort when needed, visited with the older teens, and mentally challenged citizens. Many offered ‘needs’ lists for their continued needs, which is below if your heart feels the needs to assist in this ministry. Without your assistance we cannot possibly reach the thousands of people who need help, care and the message of Christ. We thank you in advance for your assistance.

Facility distributions:

Artum Orphan Hospital: Baby blankets (thank you Andrea B.), stockings, knitted hats, and booties, mattresses, lotion, q-tips, Destin ointment, baby shampoo, busy boxes (thank you Kennette), toys, sleepers, 200 clothe diapers (thank you Walter Steely), diaper pins, and electronic scales

Dzerzhinsk Internat (110 orphans, 465 children): stockings, socks, hats, gloves, scarves (thank you Frieda H.), clothing, shampoo, toothpaste, personal care bags.

Dzerzhinsk Orphanage (45 kids): clothing, socks, shampoo, toothpaste.

The Norvgorosk Internat is home to 50 orphans: Personal care bags for all children, clothing, stockings, markers, books, shampoo, toothpaste, toys and games (thank you Raa Middle School)

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital (60 +/-): 200 cloth diapers (thank you Walter Steely), clothing, toys, hats, and gloves

Aids facility (130 children): 200 clothe diapers (Thank you Walter Steely), 25 blankets (thank you Frieda, Andrea, Zula), clothing, knitted caps and booties, Destin cream

Our Children Orphanage (150 +/-): 20 blankets, knitted hats and booties, stockings, toys (thank you Jody Glenn), Destin cream, clothing, on-going juice and diaper program

The ‘Forgotten’ Facility (working from a provided list) 325 patients: clothing, hats, and cookies and apples

Mental Hospital (60 patients): Clothing, socks

Local Allergy Hospital: Large quantity of allergy medications (thank you Ellen D.)

Community Outreach in Dzerzhinsk: Over 200 lbs of clothing were provided for needy families via Yuri Y.

Old Folks Home: Time did not permit us to visit this facility, but we left 3 large boxes (clothing, blankets, checkers/puzzles/cards, medicine) for later distribution. Thank you Ellen D. for the warm scarves and lap blankets. The Shelter: Time did not permit us to get to this facility, but 3 boxes of clothing, shoes, toys (thank you Raa Middle School), toothpaste and other items, were left for later distribution. Also, clothing soap, bar soap, shampoo and lotion were purchased and taken to the facility.

Facility Needs:

ALL facilities for children 5-18 and adults need dark socks or $300. to purchase in country

Artum Orphan Hospital: need plastic pants for diapers

Dzerzhinsk Internat: personal care bags, sheets ($500.00 in country purchase for 3 facilities)

Dzerzhinsk Orphanage: personal care bags, shoes, slippers

Norvgorosk Internat – 50 orphans: personal care bags, shoes, globes for class rooms, and large maps, and clothing for teens

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital (60 +/-): clothing and orthopedic equipment, $150.00 to continue diaper and juice program Aids facility -130 children: sheets (purchase in country), need plastic pants, $100.00 for diaper and juice program

Our Children Orphanage (150 +/-): $200.00 monthly to continue the diaper and juice program

Donetsk Internat: Funds for personal hygiene products for girls – $80.00 monthly for 100 girls.

The Shelter: CLOTHING and SHOES (the turnover is every 30 months for this 75 bed facility)

 “The Forgotten” – This facility provided a needs list, and several U.S. churches are working together on this list. Funds are needed for this desperately needy facility.

Mental Hospital (60 patients): Clothing, socks and slippers, funds for medicine ($40.00 monthly)

Donetsk Home for the Elderly – 70 clients 70 – 95 yrs. of age: A new facility for us: Night gowns, men’s P.J.’s, slippers, socks, magnifying glasses, personal care bags, clothing, checkers, chess, walkers and toilet chairs Unfortunately due to running back and forth to Dzerzhinsk and Donetsk, and that Teresa got very ill on the trip, sadly we were unable to have lady’s Bible classes. The ladies understood, but it has always been a practice on each trip.

NEW DEVELOPMENTS:

His Kids, Too! became a registered charity in Ukraine

His Kids, Too! obtained their 501c3 renewal from the U.S. government

His Kids, Too! is in the process of purchasing a kindergarten to renovate for a Christian Children’s Home, we need your help. Please contact us for a DVD on this project.

Denis Lapin was added as a board member.

Up coming events for His Kids, Too!:

Continue to ship aide to Ukraine for distribution

Greeting cards are now on sale in the Gift Shop. All artwork by orphans.

Continue to assist Christian families with adoption services in Ukraine

Continue to provide adoption grants to adopting families, when funds are available

Continue to take the gospel of Christ to the lost souls of Ukraine, and encourage those in the brotherhood to persevere in the faith

We continue to be amazed at the power of the living God we serve. He continually opens doors to opportunities of service, and you continue to provide the financial support for these programs. Some situations are more desperate than others, and we pray for discernment. We are sad to report that Christina passed away April 2, 2005. Services were held at the Polatarsky Church of Christ on April 4. We are so thankful for her Godly life, love, smiles, and hugs. She loved orphans, and shared that love with so many. We covet your prayers and appreciate your encouragement, and continued support.

Sincerely,

Teresa Fillmon Director/His Kids, Too!

Our fall visit to Ukraine was exciting and very busy. We were pleased to have 2 additional sets of hands with us, as a couple accompanied me from Minnesota. Dave and Fami D. have plans to adopt a little girl from Russia, but had the desire to go and serve and orphans and widows prior to their adoption.

Our trip would consist of visiting the facilities that His Kids, Too! already is servicing, accessing new needs, visiting new facilities that have requested assistance, meeting with board His Kids, Too! board members, visiting with church members, and teaching ladies Bible class when possible and meeting with 3 adopting families. All these goals were met (except we only met with 2 families as the other had already departed), and we were blessed to have enough clothing for 50 needy families in the community.

We arrived in Dzerzhinsk and work was waiting for us. Thousands of pounds of aide that had been sent prior to our trip waited to be sorted for distribution. We were thrilled to have some church members available to assist us in this huge endeavor. Fami and Dave had brought supplies for personal care bags, and those were also assembled for distribution. The 2 weeks that followed we visited the facilities listed below, visiting well over 1000 children and hundreds of adults. We put clothing on children (when allowed), provided a hug or comfort when needed, visited with the older teens, and senior citizens. The Lord impressed upon us the great need for discernment and gentle care for all these in need. Many offered ‘needs’ lists for their continued needs, which is below if your heart feels the needs to assist in this ministry. Without your assistance we cannot possibly reach the thousands of people who need help, care and the message of Christ. We thank you in advance for your assistance.

Facility distributions:

Artum Orphan Hospital: Baby blankets (thank you Andrea B.), stockings, knitted hats, and booties, sheets, mattresses, lotion, q-tips, Destin ointment, baby shampoo, busy boxes (thank you Kennette), toys, sleepers, clothe diapers (thank you Freida H.); 200 masks, and other medical equipment (thank you Ginny W.)

Dzerzhinsk Internat (100 orphans, 435 children): stockings, socks, hats, gloves, scarves (thank you Freida H.), clothing, shampoo, toothpaste, markers, and crayons, sporting equipment

Dzerzhinsk Orphanage (23 kids): clothing, socks, shampoo, toothpaste, markers, crayon books, stockings, sport equipment (Stewardship is a problem at this facility)

The Norvgorosk Internat is home to 50 orphans: Personal care bags for all children, clothing, stockings, sports equipment, markers, books, shampoo, toothpaste

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital (60 +/-): clothing, toys, and stockings

Aids facility (130 children): jumpers for 130 children, 25 blankets (thank you Freida, Andrea, Zula), clothing, knitted caps and booties, Destin cream, flannel sheet material (they will make sheets)

Our Children Orphanage (150 +/-): 30 mattresses, 30 blankets, 30 sheets, 30 liners (we stocked the new wing), knitted hats and booties, stockings, toys, Destin cream, clothing, on-going juice and diaper program

Donetsk Internat: Funds for personal hygiene products for girls – $80.00 monthly for 100 girls.

The Shelter: 3 big boxes of clothing, blankets (we will start working with this facility again)

The ‘Forgotten’ Facility (working from a provided list) 305 patients: teapots, large washbasins, spoons, trays clothing, hats, socks, and a very large quantity of medicine, cookies and bananas

Mental Hospital (60 patients): Clothing, socks

Donetsk Home for the Elderly: This was our first visit to this facility, and didn’t know what they needed. We have forwarded back some items, but will be shipping items for this facility. Your help is greatly needed for these deserving seniors!

Donetsk Feeding Program: This program started with 50 people, 2 have died (from age), and 3 are involved with one on one Bible studies. We have had one baptism so far. The program has been expanded to 60. A huge thanks to Peter P. for his generous donation to this program! Refrigerator to a member of the Donetsk feeding program. Hospital visitation to another member.

Dzerzhinsk Feeding Program: This program has been down scaled to 10 from its 25. More community outreach will begin in spring with the addition of 15 communities poor. Thank you to Peter P. for his support of this program.

Community Outreach in Dzerzhinsk: Over 200 lbs of clothing were provided for 50 families

Facility Needs: (Items marked * are in route to Ukraine for distribution)

Artum Orphan Hospital: clothe diapers and pins*, need plastic pants

Dzerzhinsk Internat: shoes, boots, coats, clothing, and personal care bags, sheets ($500.00 in country purchase for 3 facilities)

Dzerzhinsk Orphanage: personal care bags, shoes, boots, slippers, and coats

Norvgorosk Internat – 50 orphans: personal care bags, shoes, boots, coats, and clothing for teens

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital (60 +/-): clothing and orthopedic equipment, $150.00 to continue diaper and juice program

Aids facility -130 children: sheets (purchase in country) – $200.00, cloth diapers and pins*, need plastic pants, $100.00 for diaper and juice program

Our Children Orphanage (150 +/-): $200.00 monthly to continue the diaper and juice program

Donetsk Internat: Funds for personal hygiene products for girls – $80.00 monthly for 100 girls.

The Shelter: CLOTHING and SHOES (the turnover is every 30 months for this 75 bed facility)

“The Forgotten” – This facility provided a needs list, and several U.S. churches are working together on this list. Funds are needed for this desperately needy facility.

Mental Hospital (60 patients): Clothing, socks and slippers, funds for medicine ($40.00 monthly)

Donetsk Home for the Elderly – 70 clients 70 – 95 yrs. of age: A new facility for us: Night gowns, men’s P.J.’s, slippers, socks, magnifying glasses, personal care bags, clothing, checkers, chess, walkers and toilet chairs

Up coming events for His Kids, Too!:
Continue to ship aide to Ukraine for distribution
His Kids, Too! Director will be speaking at Samford University to bring awareness to the plight of orphans
Completion of greeting card project – cards are now on sale in the Gift Shop. All artwork by orphans.
Continue to assist Christian families with adoption services in Ukraine
Continue to provide adoption grants to adopting families, when funds are available
Continue to take the gospel of Christ to the lost souls of Ukraine, and encourage those in the brotherhood to persevere in the faith

We continue to be amazed at the power of the living God we serve. He continually opens doors to opportunities of service, and you continue to provide the financial support for these programs. Some situations are more desperate than others, and we pray for discernment. We covet your prayers and appreciate your encouragement, and continued support.

Sincerely,
Teresa Fillmon
Director/His Kids, Too!

On this visit to Ukraine, we were able to travel to 5 cities and provide aide to thousands of children. It was a joy to visit with friends, church members, orphans, directors, and many others. The entire Fillmon family traveled to Ukraine for 3 weeks. We arrived safely, and were off by train to Dzerzhinsk. This trip was a combination humanitarian and Bible camp, as 27+ Americans descended on Dzerzhinsk. The children eagerly awaited our arrival, and we came with joyful expectations ready to sow the seeds of Jesus. There is a detailed list of distribution at the end of this report. We encourage you to review our website, www.hiskidstoo.org to see the Summer Photo Gallery.

The Bible Camp consisted or 2 camps, 1 at a local school, the other at the local Internat (Boarding School) for orphans. Eighty children were at each camp. Every child received a Russian Bible, and each day was filled with learning, singing, playing, and praying. The first 10 days of our trip we visited facilities and then we had the camp. Our shipment had arrived (see Photo Gallery) in Crimea, but had problems with customs, and the would not be released until Thursday into the camp. Teachers were busy trying to pull together craft supplies, and in the end it all worked out, but it was fairly frantic. The kids didn’t seem to notice, until the supplies did come and then they realized the difference. A major portion of your humanitarian aide was in the shipment, thus making the last days in Dzerzhinsk quite busy with distribution. In just 4 days we distributed over 1000 lbs. of aide. We were blessed to make an agreement with the director of the local Internat that educates 460 children, and is home to over 70 children, that she allow us to set up a ‘clothing closet’ in a room where we could bring children to fit them with clothing. We not only serve the orphans, but many of the very poor students. Additionally in Dzerzhinsk, His Kids, Too! serves a local orphanage (50 +/- children), Artum Orphan Hospital (25+/- children), and the local mental hospital (40 patients). Each of these facilities was visited and aide given. We are also serving 25 widows with monthly food bags, in addition to helping with the Donetsk feeding program (50 persons).

The Norvgorosk Internat is home to 45 orphans. This very poor facility and we have built a good relationship with the new director. She welcomed us warmly, and appreciated the orphanage assistance. The children were still wearing clothing from our last visit, and we could see other items we had previously donated. Stewardship is very important, but also, remembering that kids are very ‘hard’ on toys, shoes, clothing, etc. We understand that most things will need replacing frequently. The Artemivsk Baby Home was a new facility in Spring for His Kids, Too! This facility is home to 120 children between the ages of 0 and 4 yrs. old. This visit brought us on the first day that the new director and new chief doctor were at the facility. Our friend Natasha was there, and was a great help with introductions. WE were able to see all the children, and talked about the aide that they need and the future assistance that we will provide.

In Donetsk, we visited Teremok Orthopedic Hospital (60 +/-), the Aids facility (130 children), and Our Children Orphanage (150 +/-). Each facility we were greeted warmly, and everyone was pleased with their gifts. We have some specific needs for these facilities, which will be listed below. We also visited the City Baby Home, where we needed to drop off a gift, and provide fruit for 120 children. This trip took us to a new facility. Traveling 2 hours from our base in Dzerzhinsk, we went to the facility that Ukraine ‘houses’ their most disabled children and adults. We made 2 trips to this facility, where ‘the Forgotten’ live. These people live in deplorable conditions, and are warehoused until they die. We forewarn you, the photos in the photo gallery are difficult to look at, but depict the true images of this place. Their needs are listed below. Each night while in Dzerzhinsk ladies Bible classes were offered. Attendance was good for the classes, with an average of 20 ladies each evening. After a discussion with the ladies, it was decided that they wanted to study the Parables.

Donations and Needs:

Dzerzhinsk Internat: clothing, shoes, socks, personal care bags (soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush and paste, combs, hair clips for the girls, nail files, pencils, pens, stickers, chap stick), sheets, towels, toys/games, and sport equipment, medicine.
Needs: personal care bags, shoes, facility needs repairs ($400.00), 3x ointment, Band-Aids.

Dzerzhinsk Orphanage: clothing, shoes, socks, toothbrushes and paste, large bottles of shampoo, soap, sheets, towels, toys/games, sport equipment, medicine.
Needs: personal care bags, shoes (constant need)

Artum Baby Hospital: Blankets, sheets, clothing, toys, busy boxes for cribs, medicine.
Needs: clothe diapers (pins and rubber pants), ‘busy boxes’, and crib mobiles, diaper ointment.

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital: clothing, medicine, and toys
Needs: specialized equipment for CP children, funds ($100.00 monthly) to continue juice program

New Hospital: 50 new wool blankets
Needs: mattresses, sheets, pillow cases (they have, but need new ones), cost for all for 50 beds: $250.00.

City Baby Home – Donetsk: 20 kilos of bananas, personal gifts for workers and a specific child.

Internot – Donetsk:
Needs: Funds for feminine hygiene products for 75 girls. Cost $160.00 per month.

‘Our Children’ Orphanage: clothing, blankets, socks, busy boxes, and toys, medicine, knitted hats, 20 kilos of bananas, plates and cups. We continue to serve these orphans with the juice and diaper program.
Needs: Funds to continue existing programs ($200.00 monthly), 30 mattresses, sheets, and plastic lining for their new wing ($500.00); baby clothing, ‘busy boxes’ and mobiles for cribs.

Artemivsk Baby Home: knitted baby hats, blankets, and toys for every child. Needs: clothe diapers (pins, and rubber pants), shoes Norvgorosk Internat: clothing, socks, personal care bags, sheets, towels, toys/games, sport equipment, medicine
Needs: personal care bags, shoes, facility needs repairs ($500.00), clothing, new mattresses ($500.00). computer to process paperwork ($500.00), globes and wall maps.

Mental Hospital: 40 sheets, socks, clothing for 40 patients, sleepwear for patients, underclothes.
Needs: funds for food program ($60.00 monthly)

Widows – 25 local widows received their monthly food bags. His Kids, Too! has joined in the assistance of feeding 50 poor families in Donetsk. These combined efforts will cost $450.00 monthly to feed 75 people. Needs: Funds for the feeding program.

The New Invalid Facility: 350+ children/adults: 4-28 yrs. of age. Clothing, personal care products, soap, socks, medicine, 500 bars of soap, laundry detergent, Pampers, underclothes, 300 cups, wheelchair, crutches, 9 buckets, 9 tea kettles, new Dr. coats, sport equipment, sheets, 4 Potty chairs (thank you Dr. Wharton!), toys, busy boxes for cribs, and toothbrushes.
Needs: for 300+ people/children: Funds to purchase mass medicines and syringes ($40.00 per box of 1000), 200 personal care bags for teen/adult residents, sheets ($400.00), towels ($250.00), blankets ($2000.00), laundry soap ($100.00), **cloth diapers** (plastic pants and pins – children lie in their waste), ‘Depends’, plastic sheeting ($100.00), 6 busy boxes, 10 baby walkers ($120.00 all).

A cottage industry was established with many of the ladies in the church. Now available in the His Kids, Too! Gift Shop are children’s Ukrainian costumes, some with matching doll outfits. All proceeds will go to these ladies which will provide them with an income.

This trip was a good one, but a difficult one. Our visit at the new facility was overwhelming. God gave us strength and vision to help these unfortunate, but precious souls. Teresa will return to Ukraine in October, and will visit each of these facilities again; over 500 lbs. of winter aide await distribution in Ukraine. More is on the way. We thank each of you who support this work through your prayers, encouragement, and financial giving. Every dollar can make a difference. Lives are changing.

To God be all the glory!

Sincerely,

Teresa Fillmon
Director/His Kids, Too!

On this visit we were able to travel to 4 cities and provide aide to hundreds of children during my recent trip to Ukraine.  It was a joy to visit with friends, church members, orphans, directors, and many others.  Teresa Fillmon, Director of His Kids, Too! and 13 yr. old daughter Haley, traveled to Ukraine for 2 weeks in March.   We arrived safely and met our almost 2000 lbs. of humanitarian aide, waiting in Dzerzhinsk for distribution.  There is a detailed list of distribution at the end of this report.  We encourage you to review our website, www.hiskidstoo.org to review the Spring Photo Gallery.

Though much of the aide was sorted, we had the task of preparing each night for the next day’s deliveries. We were blessed to make an agreement with the director of the local Internot that educates 460 children, and is home to over 70 children, that she would accept the deliveries and store the aide until my visits.  This was a big blessing, as the aide is presently sent to another location and then is trucked to the Internot for distribution, since this is one the largest facilities His Kids, Too! assists.  We not only serve the orphans, but many of the very poor students.   Additionally in Derzhinsk, His Kids, Too! serves a local orphanage (50 +/- children), Orphan Hospital (25+/- children), and the local mental hospital (40 patients).  Each of these facilities was visited and given aide.  We are also serving 25 widows with monthly food bags.

The Norvgorosk Internot is home to 43 orphans.  This very poor facility has changed directors since our last visit, and the new director welcomed out assistance, just as the previous one.  The children were still wearing clothing from our last visit, and we could see other items we had previously donated.  Stewardship is very important, but also, remembering that kids are very hard on toys, shoes, clothing, etc.  We understand that most things will need replacing frequently.

The Artemivsk Baby Home was a new facility for His Kids, Too!  This facility is home to 120 children between the ages of 0 and 4 yrs. old.  The director was delightful, and very open to receiving assistance, though this facility was one of the nicest I have seen in Ukraine.  We will assess the needs and see what is truly needed.  Special thanks to Ira who traveled with us to this facility and made all the introductions. 

In Donetsk, we visited Teremok Orthopedic Hospital (60 +/-), a new hospital facility, and Our Children Orphanage (150 +/-).  Each facility we were greeted warmly, and everyone was pleased with their gifts.  We have some specific needs for these facilities, which will be listed below.

Each night while in Dzerzhinsk, ladies Bible classes were offered.  Attendance was good for the classes, with an average of 20 ladies each evening.  Topics that were studied ranged from:  The Beatitudes, Christ as our Foundation, Romans 12, and Philippians 2. 

Donations and Needs:
Dzerzhinsk Internot :  clothing, shoes, socks, personal care bags (soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush and paste, combs, hair clips for the girls, nail files, pencils, pens, stickers, chap stick), sheets, towels, toys/games, and sport equipment, medicine.  Needs: shoes, facility needs repairs ($300.00)

Dzerzhinsk Orphanage :  clothing, shoes, socks, personal care bags (see above for contents), sheets, towels, toys/games, sport equipment, medicine.  Needs:  shoes

Artum Baby Hospital :  Blankets, sheets, stockings, clothing, toys, busy boxes for cribs, medicine.  Needs:  cloth diapers (pins and rubber pants), ‘busy boxes’, crib mobiles, and baby clothing.

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital :  clothing, medicine, and toys  (this facility has 16 wheelchairs in route along with other equipment ) Needs :  specialized equipment for CP children, funds ($100.00 monthly) to continue juice program

New Hospital :  50 new wool blankets   Needs :  mattresses, sheets, pillow cases (they have, but need new ones)

Our Children Orphanage :  clothing, blankets, cloth diapers (pins and pants), socks, busy boxes, and toys, medicine, knitted hats.  We continue to serve these orphans with the juice and diaper program.  Needs:    Funds to continue existing programs ($200.00 monthly), 30 mattresses, sheets, and plastic lining for their new wing ($500.00); baby clothing, ‘busy boxes’ and mobiles for cribs.

Artemivsk Baby Home :  crib mattresses, crib sheets, knitted baby hats, blankets, toys for every child, new stuffed animals, 2 food grinders.  Needs:   cloth diapers (pins, and rubber pants), shoes, electric food processors (2 – $100.00 each – could not find in the town)

Norvgorosk Internot:  clothing, socks, personal care bags, sheets, towels, toys/games, sport equipment, medicine  Needs:   shoes, facility needs repairs ($500.00), clothing, new mattresses ($500.00).  computer to process paperwork ($500.00).

Mental Hospital :  65 sheets, socks.  Needs :  clothing (coming in container for summer), funds for food program ($60.00  monthly)

Widows – 25 local widows received their monthly food bags.  His Kids, Too! has joined in the assistance of feeding 50 poor families in Donetsk.  These combined efforts will cost $450.00 monthly.  Needs :  Funds for the feeding program.

It goes without saying that this work could not continue without your assistance.  We thank each of you who support this work through your prayers, encouragement, and financial giving.  Every dollar can make a difference.  You are changing lives.  To God be all the glory!

Sincerely,
Teresa Fillmon Director/His Kids, Too!
www.hiskidstoo.org

Dear Friends, Family and many supporters of His Kids, Too!,

I have returned home from my recent Fall trip to Ukraine. The trip was a complete success on all aspects. Children received many necessary items to make their lives more fulfilling, and the gospel of Jesus Christ was taught to many.

Our goals for the trip were:
1. Distribute thousands of pounds of humanitarian aide that had been shipped to Ukraine prior to the trip.
2. Meet with to access and decide what items needed to be purchased for each facility (and then purchase those items).
3. Meet with the directors of the 9 facilities that we are working in.
4. Feed widows, and organize the program to continue in my absence.
5. Teach the gospel to a many people as possible.
6. Meet with an official of the National Adoption Center.

I arrived in cold Ukraine on Saturday and then took the train out to the Donetsk oblast. Sunday was a great day of worship, and a time to see dear friends. Monday I ‘hit the ground running’, as time was short, and I had many places to visit. Visited 3 facilities (and over 300 children) that day, making accessments and then off to make purchases. I had picked up sheets and towels that were ordered prior to my arrival, and they were ready for distribution. After several days of purchasing, I returned to these 3 facilities and delivered items. There were still many places to visit, people to see, and items to be purchased and distributed.

I spent Thursday, Friday and Sat. morning in Donetsk visiting several orphanages (and hundreds of children) and hospitals there. Since we know all these folks, they were waiting for us, and were ready with their needs. Friday was spent shopping and delivering. I would be returning on the following Tuesday, as Our Children (the facility that Alla was in), insisted that I attend their fall performance of ‘saying good bye to fall’, and welcoming winter. I would return and bring more items they requested, that were still back in Dzerzhinsk.

Returning to Dzerzhinsk, Saturday afternoon I stopped and made all the purchases for the widow baskets, and, several ladies met at the church building to put together the widow baskets, for Sunday distribution. Sunday, was a great day of worship and visiting again with friends. All the food baskets were distributed, and it was decided and organized that the local church would continue this program, and funds were left for the next 5 months, as I will return in March.

Monday I was back at the Dz. Internot (Boarding School), meeting with the children and the director. It was such a joy to see these folks, as they are so gracious and thankful for your many gifts. The kids just ‘light’ up when they see me coming, as they know that they will get some token of love from someone in America. We will continue to support this facility which is home to over 100 orphans, but a school to over 450 children. Just down the road is the local orphanage, housing 50 +/- kids, and then the mental health hospital, housing 40 patients (the government has reduced this number from 60 to 40, due to lack of funding). We presented each facility with sheets, towels, clothing, and much needed medical supplies. Orphanages received the same, in addition to, games, puzzles, toys, sport equipment, and much more. Some was given now, and some was put away for Christmas gifts. Church members will assure this distribution. By late after noon, I made it back to the Artum Hospital, where our dear friend, Svetlana was there. She greeted us as we distributed new mattresses, crib sheets, toys, clothing, and medicine. They were very appreciative, but we still need more crib mobiles, or ‘busy boxes’, as these little ones just lie there alone in the room. It is quite sad, but with your help, we could change this.

Tuesday, I was back to Donetsk to see the performance. There was quite a crowd and several other Ukrainian charities there in the audience. It was a pleasure to meet with these folks after the performance, getting acquainted and finding out more about what they are doing, and how we can work cooperatively together. Additionally, it was a joy to see local Ukrainians helping ‘their own’. Returning to Dzerzhinsk, we stopped at 4 facilities dropping off purchased ‘goods’ from Donetsk. It made for a long day, but well worth it.

Wednesday, I woke to snow. The day was spent back in Dzerzhinsk visiting city officials and other business meetings, and returning to 3 facilities to say our good-byes’, and drop off some clothing that we had left over.

Friday morning arriving in Kyiv, I met with our wonderful facilitator, and we went to the National Adoption Center for our scheduled meeting. That went very well, and we were able to get many of our questions, and questions from others answered. They were pleased that we were diligently trying to find homes for special needs children, along with older children.

Each night I taught Bible classes to the many ladies of the local church. Lessons were on, the Holy Spirit, Unity in the Church, Service to Others, Loving the Unlovable, and our service project was repackaging the food, filling the bags, and distribution of the food bags to 30 widows and poor families. It was truly a blessing and joy to be back with friends.

Our goals for the trip were met, and exceeded, thanks to so many of you. I will travel again to Ukraine in mid. March. A 1000 lb. shipment will be going out early December. Donations are still being accepted, especially for Crib Mobiles, ‘busy boxes’, Loom weaving kits (this was a special request from a CP foundation in Ukraine), boots (in all sizes), funds to continue the diaper program ($300.00 per month), juice program ($200.00 per month). We hope that you will consider sponsoring a program for the year 2004, or making a purchase from our Gift Shop for your holiday gift giving. All proceeds go to benefit these programs.

It is always hard to travel to Ukraine for several reasons, but in particular it is hard to see the plight of the people and children. It is hard to see so many needs and so little time and money to help such hard working, deserving people. Thanks be to God for the continuous support of so many of you. Our lives in the U.S. are so enriched, and we are so blessed. Thank you for your help, words of encouragement, support and prayers as we continue to serve the orphans, widows, and others in need, in Ukraine. May God Bless you!

Sincerely,
Teresa Fillmon
Director, His Kids, Too!

Dear Friends, Family, and His Kids Too! Supporters:

We have arrived home safely from another wonderful trip to Ukraine! We serve a great and powerful God that blesses us with our every need, and protects us from harm. We were able to serve the orphans, widows, school children, internot children (boarding school), mental patients, Aids children and other hospitalized children, and begin work with 2 additional facilities.

Our travel goals were to:

1. spend a week as part of a team teaching local school children, orphans and internot children, Bible stories, and how to use these stories in their everyday lives
   
2. do follow up Bible studies, and have nightly Bible studies with the local church members
   
3. distribution of over 2500 lbs. of humanitarian aide: sharing the love of God to orphans, widows, etc., via providing food, medicine, clothing, blankets, toiletries, etc.
   
4. visit our daughter’s orphanage in Donetsk, along with several other facilities
   
5. meet with 2 new facilities that were requesting aid assistance
   
6. meet with the new NAC (National Adoption Center) director to establish a working relationship with her

Goals Met: All goals were met, and even more!!!! Thanks be to God! We were even part of a miracle, which I’ll briefly explain below.

Because we want to be the best stewards of the gifts so many of you have provided and funds you have sacrificially donated, below I will give some highlights of the trip followed by a more inclusive list of what was provided to each facility. Click on areas highlighted to view photos, * indicates more photos can be found in the Photo Gallery, Summer 2003.

Our family arrived in Kiev June 19, and were off to the train, to the Oblast. I stayed back in Kyiv as our humanitarian shipment was mysteriously being ‘held’ in Simpheropol, and I stayed back in Kyiv to work out the delay. After working through some issues, we were told to ‘come on Monday for pick up’. The shipment contained about 99 % of our Day Camp supplies, and the other 14 boxes were humanitarian aide, along with a wheelchair. The supplies were essential for the success of the Day Camp.

The Miracle: Lena and I arrived early Monday morning in Simpheropol to pick up the shipment. After going to 2 offices and meeting with Custom officials, they withdrew their permission to receive the shipment. It was all very odd, but the customs official said that he did not realize that the release date was July 1, and he could not, nor ‘would not’ release it early. We then proceeded to visit 9 more offices, knowing that it was imperative that we get the shipment released, and that God would not have sent us here knowing that the ‘door would be closed’. A huge thanks goes to Oksana from International Relief and Development, but even she did not comprehend the later decision of the Custom officials. At 1:30, on our 11th office visit, the door appeared
to ‘shut’ and all hope seemed to be gone. We had one more possibility, and it was a ‘long shot’. All the way to the office I prayed for this officials heart to be softened to the children of Ukraine and our mission to share Jesus with them. For all the aid that they so desperate needed. I called the team back in Dzerzhinsk, requesting that they pray for this situation. We arrived at the office, and we waited. At 2:20 p.m. Oksana came and gave us the news, in disbelief, ‘the shipment had been released’! I shouted ‘Slova Boga (Praise the Lord in Russian)’, and thanked the Lord for His kindness, mercy and faithfulness. We drove back to the customs officials office with all the release paperwork, and on the way to the shipment, he commented several times that in his history with the customs office (since 1994), they had NEVER released a shipment early, even to a Ukrainian that had shipped something. He was astonished we received the permission. I gladly explained to him, and the others in the car (as we had 2 other officials with us), that it truly was an act by God, a miracle, and that we thank God for this. He commented, ‘well, this doesn’t happen in Ukraine, so it must have been ‘something’. We thanked God for this opportunity to share about the faithfulness of Him to these officials and Oksana, and they all agreed that it was ‘some other power’ that got that official to change his mind about the release date. We loaded the shipment, returned to Dzerzhinsk with the shipment, arriving at 5:15 a.m., unloading and ready for Tuesday’s day camp, and all the teachers were thrilled (as were the children) to have their supplies.

The rest of the week of June 23 was just great, and the 2 Bible camps went very well. Children and facility directors were thrilled with the curriculum, Bibles, crafts, songs, and the enthusiasm of the team members. All was well received, and they are eagerly awaiting next years program.

After the Bible camp, the team moved on to Kiev for a singing school, but we remained in the Oblast for 9 more days. During this time we were able to accomplish many of the goals and objectives of His Kids, Too!. Life in Ukraine is difficult, and this trip was no exception. We had alot of rain, which allowed the water to run for a total of 6 hours a day, but the mud and dirt were a constant problem. Many days were spent visiting facilities and assess the needs, purchasing items and returning for delivery. Some days were spent delivering the items that were in the shipment that so miraculously was released. Medical equipment unavailable in Ukraine, but life changing to many precious children.

Monday, June 30th was a holiday, and we spent the day sorting 2500 lbs. of aide to be distributed to 8 different facilities. Tuesday we were off to Donetsk to visit Alla’s orphanage, Teremok Orthopedic Hospital, and the Specialized Baby’s Home. The workers, children and director were thrilled to see Alla and her progress. They whisked her away when we arrived, and we didn’t see her again for about an hour. She was very glad to see ‘her friends’, and spoke with many children, and all the workers. We had a special time with the director, and her special care giver, Oksana. We left clothing, shoes, toys, and medicine, for all the children, and some blankets. Thanks to your continued support, this facilities also receives on a monthly basis, diapers and high vitamin juice from His Kids, Too!. At the Teremok Orthopedic Hospital, children received toys, clothing, medicine, and they were the recipient of the wheelchair. Thanks to Whitmyer Biomechanxis, this facility has received 7 chairs and 4 walkers, they were VERY grateful, and it was great to see them using all the items provided. We were then off to the Specialized Baby Home, (Aids Hospital), where the children were asleep. But we met with the director, and provided the facility with homemade quilts, medicine, clothing, and stuffed animals for all the children. Our trip to Donetsk was very special, and a delight to see the facilities using the items His Kids, Too! provides, and also overseeing this usage with good stewardship.

Wednesday was off to a new facility, a Internot (Boarding School). This facility, extremely poor, relayed to me, that they had NEVER had an adoption by a foreigner, and only 2, by Ukrainians. The children, though older, are quite nice, and I would encourage those interested in adoption to possibly consider theseand these children. Children were provided with 2 sets of clothing, toothbrushes, soap, shoes, socks, and every child received a stuffed animal; the facility was provided with sport games, toys, soap, and additional supplies for children that will be transferred to the facility in the future. If support is received, we will continue this work, as this facility is in dire need of much help. The director was extremely grateful and amazed at our generosity. We of course, relayed, that we are only the messengers of this aid, and that many, many people in America have provided the funds. Our plans, if funding is provided, is to purchase much needed sheets, pillow cases, towels and shoes to this facility during my October visit.

Thursday and Friday were spent visiting the facilities that we assist in our ‘home town’, Dzerzhinsk. The local internot had allowed us to ‘set up shop’ in one of their empty rooms, and this room ‘housed’ all the clothes for the children of their facility and the others in Dzerzhinsk. This made the task of clothing the children less difficult, since we were able to sort and size. We clothed over 300 children at the Boarding School, local orphanage, and a new facility, a Children’s Hospital. Each child received, at least one outfit, if not more, socks, shoes, a toothbrush, soap, a toy, a stuffed animal and a personal gift (for a boy or a girl), all of which YOU provided through your generous giving. The Internot and Orphanage received sport equipment and medicine for all the children. At the hospital we were able to provide a large amount of specialized medical equipment (trachea. equipment, syringes, oxygen tubing, gloves, suture kits, blood pressure kits), OTC medicine, blankets, clothing for all the children, toys, and a stuffed animal for each child. With your support we will continue to help this children’s hospital, as they are in dire need, and the director is very open to receiving assistance. Additionally, we sent clothing to the local mental hospital for their adult patients.

Saturday, I went shopping for food, and that afternoon we were able to supply 30 widows with food and toiletries in wonderful canvas bags provided by Florida Children’s Forum.

Monday, July 7 was spent clothing some very poor local families. Even after all the donations throughout the weeks, we still had plenty to help others, a reflection of the great ‘fishes and loaves’ story!

During the week of July 1st, we had evening Bible studies for the ladies, looking at the lives of Mary and Martha, and then looking at love and forgiveness. Saturday one of our frequent visitors, Angela was baptized into Christ, it was so exciting to see this life changing decision. Additionally, Rich was able to baptize her in our bathtub, because there was no water, in the morning when the water was ‘on’ we had collected it in our bathtub.

When our time in Ukraine was over, and we believe that it was time well spent. God had blessed the trip, and were able to meet our goals. Please remember, that each ‘gift’ is given with a laminated card stating that the gift is from the local Church, it’s meeting place and time, and a local contact person, we want to always ‘point people’ in the direction of hearing more about Jesus, and not just receive aide. Below is the list of items purchased and the aid that was distributed to orphans, hospitals, boarding schools, the mental hospital and specialized baby home. Additionally, ‘thank you letters’ from directors, etc. are available for review.

Boarding School (local Internot ages 6 and up)
clothing for all children, some shoes, and caps
new socks for all the children (245)toothbrushes/toothpaste/floss and soap for are children
medicine for the facility, blood pressure kit
board games/art supplies and sport equipment for children
toys and stuffed animals for all children
a personal gift for each child

Local Orphanage (presently only 38 orphans ages 5 and up)
new clothing, socks, shoes, and underclothing, caps
toothbrushes
sport equipment
toys and stuffed animals for orphans

Local Mental Hospital (60 adult patients)
clothing

Children’s Orthopedic Hospital (60 + children ages 4 – 8)
clothing and socks for all the children
medicine for facility
1 wheelchair
Continue high vitamin juice program at facility

Specialized Baby Home (60+ children ages 0-5yrs. old)
clothing and socks for all children
toys and stuffed animals for all children
medicine for facility

Orphanage (presently 102 children ages 0-4)
clothing
socks for all children
medicine for facility
juice and diaper program in progress

New Internot (Boarding School 25 children 6 – 17)
clothing, socks, shoes, caps
toothbrushes/toothpaste, soap
medicine for the facility
board games/art supplies and sport equipment for children
toys and stuffed animals for all children
a personal gift for each child

Children’s Hospital (New Facility)
clothing for all the children
trachea. equipment, syringes, oxygen tubing, gloves, suchere kits., blood
pressure kits
OTC medicine
blankets
clothing for all the children
toys, and a stuffed animal for each child.

Widows (30 widow bags were prepared and distributed to local widows and needy
church families)
2k. of flour, 2k. sugar, 1.5k rice, 2k. macaroni, salt, cheese
soap, toothbrushes, toilet paper, shampoo and Tylenol/Advil
new socks for all family members

Needs for October Trip:
Infant and children clothing/shoes/boots – we distributed ALL our infant clothing on this trip
Medical Supplies for children’s hospital – please drop me a note for a list
Funds to continue programs in progress and to purchased items in country approx. $1000.00 for 4 months
Funds to purchase sheets, pillow cases, towels for ‘new’ internot facility,
mental hospital, ‘new’ children’s hospital in Dzerzhinsk, ($600.00 total)
A FF ticket for my travel there (Please remember all His Kids, Too! staff pays for all their own expenses, not one penny from YOUR donations goes to help our travel expenses)

The trip was wonderful, productive and successful in meeting our goals. I will return to Ukraine in October for 10 days for humanitarian purposes as well as to continue to serve at the local church. We want to thank you for your continued support through prayers, encouragement and financial gifts to this ministry. Without your help, His Kids, Too! could not be the messengers of your love, care and concern for these people and seeds of Gods love for them could not have been sown.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions or comments and may God Bless you as serve Him.

Peace,
Teresa and the rest of the Fillmons!